Clarification of actual NHS process of medical transition please ^_^

[Willowicious]

Hiya!

I'm a UK mtf planning to transition on the NHS, and am confused about the actual process of doing this. Some sources say you get your GP to refer you to a psychiatrist who then refers you to a GIC, but I've also heard that GPs just refer you straight away to a GIC. Furthermore, some sources say that one begins HRT and have somde other forms of therapy (e.g. voice therapy, hair removal) before an RLE, which, and others say you have to have an RLE before you can start HRT and get other treatments. Also, the number of appointments before differs from 2 to 4 between sources (so is it different for different cases and clinics?)  Some clarification on the actual process would be nice please; any help is greatly appreciated! 

[Elis]

You're supposed to go to a GP and then be referred to a GIC, although some GPs aren't familiar with trans patients and send them to a psychiatrist without needing too. Unfortunately an NHS GIC tends to take you more seriously if you are living already as your true gender from what I've heard. Also waiting times do differ between GICS and you can get referred to anyone you want.

[Yenneffer]

A slow long process

[kira21 ♡♡♡]

http://www.england.nhs.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/int-gend-proto.pdf

[Willowicious]

Thanks for all the help!  The link was especially useful! ^_^ [hugs]